Stranger Journeys
Developer and publisher Atlus has polished and ported an absolute RPG classic for re-release. Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey Redux is now available for the Nintendo 3DS family of consoles. Here’s what to expect, along with what’s new in the updated version of the game.
Trouble way down south
In Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey Redux, an overpopulated and polluted Earth is in the throes of conflict and disorder. When an unexplained phenomenon is manifested at the South Pole, the United Nations appoints an elite task force to investigate. It is their job to investigate an neutralize this threat, and prevent humanity’s extinction.
As you guide the investigation team onto the unknown abyss, you will begin to encounter mythical “angels” and “demons”. As is typical of games in the Shin Megami Tensei series, these creatures can prove either friend or foe. The decisions you make during these encounters will determine success or failure as you navigate the hostile “Land of Ruin”.
The battle rages on
Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey Redux features a distinct turn-based combat system that by now is very familiar to fans of the series. Exploiting enemy weaknesses and performing devastating follow-up attacks are key to dominating in battle. Expanding the breadth of skills at your disposal through upgraded gear and commander abilities will facilitate your victories.
During battle you will also choose to lean toward one of three alignments—Law, Neutrality, or Chaos. The choices you make in combat will ultimately determine your alignment. This will not only influence your interaction with demons, but will shape the ending of the story as well.
Why can’t we be friends?
There are over 340 unique demons in Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey Redux. They won’t all remain enemies though. By using negotiation tactics, you can speak to demons during battle, and actually convince them to join your team.
Cultivating demon allies increases the range of skills available to you in battle. As demons gain experience in battle, their proficiency increases—providing you with even greater combat strength. Demon stats can also be increased with “Incense”, a buffing agent that can be obtained in dungeons, such as the “Womb of Grief”, which is a new addition to Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey Redux.
Fusion Frenzy
You may also create brand new demons through the process of “Demon Fusion”. Two or more demons can be combined through this forbidden ritual, creating a newer, more powerful ally. Maxing out demon skills and then combining them through fusion can create extremely valuable additions to your party.
New content
Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey Redux has many new features not included in the original game. A brand new character and a new story route bolster the original narrative content.
It also adds a new game plus mode, for those who wish to continue the adventure after their initial playthrough is complete. The 2nd playthrough includes additional missions and even a new difficulty setting.
Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey Redux is available now, and is compatible with the entire line of Nintendo 2DS and 3DS family of consoles.
